This document applies to unplasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC-U) profiles that are intended to be used for the fabrication of windows and doors in accordance with the EN 14351 series or EN 16034, shutters according to EN 13659 and other construction profiles in accordance with the EN 13245 series. Furthermore, this document is also applicable for profiles used in other PVC-U products, which can include recyclates. This document gives references and specifies general and product-specific design for recycling principles.
NOTE 1 In this document, the term “PVC-U profiles” is used to refer to construction profiles made from PVC-U, PVC-UE, and PVC-U-based natural fibre composites (NFC).
NOTE 2 For editorial reasons in this document the term window is used for window/door.
Criteria for the use of materials, process conditions, and recyclability are defined, which are considered during the design process.
This document defines principles to
- obtain the highest possible share of recyclability of the PVC-U part in the profile, and
- increase the share of PVC-U recyclate in the profile,
while complying with requirements for the final product, where existent and defined elsewhere. This document establishes flowcharts which help to assess, (i) how recyclability is evaluated and (ii) whether inclusion of rPVC-U is possible.
The following components of the final PVC-U construction product are considered in this document:
- profiles;
- reinforcements;
- gaskets;
- insulations;
- coverings.
This document specifies only the technical connection of the profile to other components (such as glazing or hardware) and their impact on the recyclability of the PVC-U profiles. The recyclability of the other components (e.g. glazing, aluminium cover, hardware) is excluded from this document.
NOTE 3 Examples for profiles included in this document and their intended use can be found in Figure 1.

Figure 1 - Examples for profiles included in this document and their intended use (frame and sash profile with reinforcements, window, door, cladding and shutter box with shutter)